Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence and Transformative Leadership in Education

By Shawn Kimuli

KIU, Main Campus - In a proud moment for Uganda and Africa, Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Kampala International University (KIU), has been honoured as the African Educationist of the Year 2024 by the prestigious African Leadership Magazine. This award, part of the 14th Edition of the African Leadership Magazine Persons of the Year Awards, is a testament to his outstanding educational contributions and visionary leadership, making KIU a trailblazer in African higher education.

Dr. Basajjabalaba secured an impressive 86.24% of the votes, highlighting the overwhelming support for his work across the continent and globally. His leadership at KIU has redefined private education in Uganda and set new standards of excellence across Africa.

A 25-Year Journey of Transforming Education

This recognition comes as KIU celebrates 25 years of excellence in education. Since its founding in 2001, the university has grown into a powerhouse of academic innovation and research, serving students across the region and beyond. Today, KIU stands as Uganda’s leading private university, a ranking affirmed by Webometrics, and one of the top institutions in Africa.

Under Dr. Basajjabalaba’s stewardship, KIU has expanded its footprint with international operations in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and multiple study centres across Uganda. The university has built a reputation for offering programs tailored to meet the demands of the modern workforce, ensuring its graduates are well-equipped to tackle global challenges and drive meaningful change in their communities.

KIU Teaching Hospital: Advancing Healthcare in Africa

A cornerstone of KIU’s impact is the Kampala International University Teaching Hospital and Research (KIUTHR), located at the university’s Western Campus in Ishaka, Bushenyi District. As one of the largest and most advanced medical teaching facilities in Uganda, KIUTH has a capacity of over 1,200 beds and serves as both a training hub for future medical professionals and a critical healthcare provider for underserved communities.

KIUTHR’s contributions to medical education and healthcare delivery have made it a centre of excellence in Uganda and across the East African region. The hospital’s integration of academic rigour with community-focused service exemplifies KIU’s holistic approach to development.

A Global Stage for Recognition

Dr. Basajjabalaba will be formally celebrated at the African Persons of the Year Awards Ceremony 2024, scheduled for February 27–28, 2025, at the Casablanca Marriott Hotel in Morocco. Themed “Inclusive Leadership for an Interconnected Africa: New Paradigms for Future Realities”, the event will be chaired by H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania.

At this prestigious event, Dr. Basajjabalaba will join other esteemed leaders who are shaping Africa’s future, including:

• H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar
• H.E. João Lourenço, President of Angola
• H.E. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda

This global recognition highlights Dr. Basajjabalaba’s remarkable achievements and reinforces KIU’s status as a leader in education and innovation on the continent.

Setting the Benchmark for Private Education

KIU’s standing as Uganda’s top private university is no accident. The university’s commitment to cutting-edge technology, research-driven learning, and strategic partnerships with global institutions has positioned it as a leader in Africa’s educational landscape.

From its modern campuses to its state-of-the-art facilities, KIU prioritises student success. Its curriculum, infused with a focus on employability and innovation, ensures graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

As KIU celebrates 25 years of academic excellence, the university is also looking ahead with ambitious plans to expand its reach, enhance research capabilities, and deepen its impact across Africa. With a clear focus on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, KIU is poised to continue shaping the future of education for decades to come.

Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba’s recognition as the African Educationist of the Year 2024 is a fitting tribute to his visionary leadership and the university’s remarkable journey. It is a moment of celebration for KIU, Uganda, and the entire African education sector, as the institution continues to redefine what is possible in higher education.

Congratulations to Dr. Basajjabalaba and the entire KIU community for this extraordinary achievement. Together, they are not only making history but also building a brighter future for generations to come.